Bancroft City Council Report - April
April’s Regular City Council meeting was held on the 13th. This report has been adapted from the official minutes recorded by City Clerk Debbie Swensen, but is not itself the official report.
Attendance
Council members present included Jessica M. Vawser, Trevor Parsons, Michael Ackerman, and Jessica Thurman. Mayor Perry and Clerk Debbie Swensen were also present. Additional attendees included members of the public, Fire Chief Bob Snow, Sheriff Mabey, Judge Brower, and several local residents.
Mayor Perry called the meeting to order at 8:00 p.m. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer led by Judge Brower.
Fire Department Update
Fire Chief Bob Snow reported that he had begun reorganizing the fire department and evaluating equipment needs. He discussed a potential fire truck donation that had been offered through the state fire marshal’s office. However, after reviewing the vehicle, he determined the truck’s pump capacity would not satisfy the city’s ISO rating requirements. Snow noted that the City of Boise may soon surplus additional fire trucks and that he intends to monitor those opportunities.
Snow also outlined plans to retire older equipment, including the cab-over truck and one of the five-ton trucks. One of the vehicles had sustained damage after being stored outdoors and exposed to weather conditions.
The fire department requested permission to attend a volunteer firefighter training in Montpelier in June. Approximately ten volunteers expressed interest in attending. Mayor Perry recommended using general fund for training and certification to support the department so that the fire department budget could be reserved for equipment and operational needs.
The council approved funding for the firefighters’ training attendance and meals if necessary. The city also offered use of the city vehicle for transportation.
County Building Inspector
Discussion
County Inspector Rowdy Larkins met with the council to discuss the possibility of establishing a county inspection contract for the city. He explained that county commissioners would first need to approve any agreement before implementation.
Larkins described a similar arrangement currently used with Soda Springs, where the county receives 70% of permit fees while the city retains 30%. The county’s portion would cover inspection time, fuel, training, and administrative costs.
The inspector clarified that permit fees are calculated according to square footage rather than project value to improve consistency and fairness. He also explained that structures larger than 200 square feet require building permits, while smaller structures only require a setting permit.
Financial Audit and Budget Review
The city auditor reviewed the city’s financial condition and reported that utility rate increases are expected to move the city toward a positive net balance during 2026.
The council reviewed information regarding the city’s Department of Environmental Quality water bond loan. The loan carries a 3.25% interest rate and matures in 2036.
The auditor also explained new accounting standards involving employee sick leave liabilities. Under the updated rules, cities must recognize and report accumulated sick leave obligations more clearly.
Budget amendments will now appear in a dedicated amendments column within future budgets to improve transparency.
Key financial observations included:
• The city showed an overall profit of approximately $24,000.
• Property tax revenue had been budgeted at $264,000, but actual collections totaled approximately $234,000.
• Most city expenditures remained under budget except for the street project, largely due to grant-related expenses.
• The sewer utility increase is expected to positively affect future budgets.
• Capital outlay expenditures included major infrastructure and long-term assets such as sidewalks, equipment, and drainage projects.
The auditor commended the city for proactively transitioning to new financial software after the previous software vendor became unavailable. He noted that many other cities had delayed similar transitions and were now struggling to adapt.
Fair Housing Proclamation
Council member Jessica Thurman read the Fair Housing Proclamation aloud. The council unanimously approved adoption of the proclamation.
Building Permits
Curt Hill – Shed Permit
The council reviewed a shed permit application submitted by Curt Hill. Trevor Parsons indicated he had no concerns regarding the proposed location. The permit was approved unanimously.
Mike Ackerman – Fence Permit
Michael Ackerman presented plans for decorative three-rail fencing at two Main Street properties.
The council discussed the proposed fence at 65 South Main Street and raised concerns about approving the permit before ownership of the property was finalized.
The council ultimately approved the fence permit for 50 South Main Street. Council members also discussed how vendors would continue accessing the property during community events.
Shop Roof Repairs
Mayor Perry informed the council that the city had not received grant funding for repairs to the city shop roof. He stated that additional roofing estimates would be gathered.
Code Enforcement
The council discussed ongoing code enforcement issues involving approximately six non-compliant residences. Two of the properties were reportedly making progress toward compliance. Further discussion regarding specific violations and addresses was scheduled for executive session.
Introduction of Judge Brower
Judge Brower introduced himself to the council and community members. He provided personal background information, including his military service (Army) and public service experience (county prosecutor for Oneida County, among other positions). Brower was appointed to the Sixth District seat following the retirement of Judge Brown. Changes to the ballots in Idaho do not list judges as “incumbents” or use the language “retain” in contested judicial elections, but Brower has been seated in Caribou County for the 6th district since appointed around two years ago.
He explained that he currently serves as district judge for Caribou, Bannock, Power, Oneida, and Bear Lake Counties. Judge Brower discussed his experience with planning, zoning, and legal code development.
He also referenced his upcoming election campaign, emphasizing his commitment to fairness, constitutional protections, and respectful treatment of citizens.
The council thanked Judge Brower for attending the meeting.
Council Reports and Public Works Discussion
Council members discussed equipment maintenance and purchasing practices. Trevor Parsons noted positive experiences working with Utah Track and Weld for equipment service and deliveries.
The council also addressed several public works issues, including:
• Updating speed limit signage entering town.
• Obtaining gravel delivery quotes.
• Repairing roads and alleyways disturbed during utility work.
• Maintaining Airport Road and improving its gravel base before chip sealing.
• Coordinating gravel hauling assistance with the county.
Mayor Perry proposed organizing a student contest through North Gem schools to design a new city logo. Council members responded positively to the idea, and plans were made to contact school officials.
Additional discussion focused on liability concerns related to allowing residents access to city property for loading and removal of materials. Council members emphasized the need to reduce hazards and verify insurance coverage before permitting public access.
Public Comment
Resident James Ackerman complimented the city on the recently installed LED street lighting, noting that the improved lighting made walking outside at night safer and more convenient.
The meeting was adjourned and the minutes were recorded by City Clerk Debbie Swensen.
